“MN Acoustic Music Master,” (Star Tribune) Michael Monroe, performs original/acoustic cover tunes on vocals, crystal/bamboo flutes and Seaton Guitars crafted on the Gunflint Trail with reclaimed 200 year-old wood from the bottom of Lake Superior.

Michael Monroe is now in his 5th decade of performing nationally in concert, festival, corporate and educational settings. He has travelled many miles since his first paid performance for an audience of 4000 in Asbury Park, NJ and recording his first demo over 6 decades ago in a “chicken coop” studio owned by Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul and Mary.

Monroe’s award winning instrumental soundtracks are featured on PBS/CBC, in Jim Brandenburg (National Geographic) “Chased By The Light.” and received an Emmy for Jason Davis’ On The Road, program, “Soaring On Mended Wings.” A recipient of many MN State Arts Board grants from the 90s through 2023.

Michael’s original music and compelling energy bring a powerful style that is as much fun as it is innovativemusic and technology working together powered by creativity and he recycles his music LIVE on stage as “master LIVE Looper” since 1990. His soulful performance delights and inspires.
Monroe returned to the Twin Cities following 28 years on the North Shore of Lake Superior near Grand Marais 11 of which were spent “off the grid” where he recorded his first 12 original albums using solar power. He presented Log Cabin Concerts in his cabin for 800 people a year for 18 years which were featured on KSTP’s Jason Davis’ On The Road, in Lake Superior and Cabin Life Magazines.

Quotes: “as far as i can see” recording the Star Tribune named it Top Ten and said, “Monroe, a rich-voiced eco-folkie, played all the instruments on this touching hymn to natureA work of art straight from the heart.” It was also nominated for “Best Independent Recording” by the Minnesota Music Academy as well as a JPF nomination for “Best Folk Recording.” “Plugged into the sun,” says the Duluth News Tribune and “Fully at peace with his subtle, yet expressively powerful, delivery” about his music and life in the woods. His 2008 Wintersong recording garnered a City Pages review: “With heartfelt sincerity and a poetic touch in both the lyrics and music, Monroe explores subtle, quiet places that spark the imagination.” “Twice In One Day blends expressive lyrics with an island sound” about which Dirty Linen magazine said, “This guy could sell a million records”